Army recruitment levels are at their highest level in 15 years
Manoah Tuiasosopo
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The United States Army reports that recruitment levels are at their highest level within the last 15 years, and local recruiters are sharing why more young people are joining the service.
In early June, the Army met its fiscal 2025 recruiting goals four months early, signing 61,000 contracts for new active-duty soldiers.
Army officials say the accomplishment marks an important turning point for them and shows that young Americans have a renewed sense of purpose and patriotism.
“Peace has to be brought up to the table, and that’s what we’re here for. To bring peace and stability to the world,” says Staff Sgt. Rigoberto Montoya, a U.S. Army Recruiter in Yuma.
Local recruiters in Yuma talked about what they believe is the cause of these increased enrollments.
Staff Sgt. Bernardo Figueroa says this day in age, recruitment efforts are taking on a new approach.
“Obviously, this is a military job, but we remove the stigmas out of the equation. We humanize it and talk to people like they’re human beings. We genuinely care about their career paths and we advise them. Honestly, just being a genuine person is what helps us here in Yuma,” he says.
Staff Sgt. Montoya says Army recruitment out of Yuma is steady, offering local youth an opportunity to expand their horizons.
He explains, “Some people don’t want to stay here forever. They want to go and explore the world and have an adventure. My goal is find the best applicants out there and bring them to the team.”
For those who may be considering joining the service, the recruiters say to them, don’t be intimidated.
“Here at the station, you’re not going to sign a contract. Ask the right questions. If this is something you want to do, we’ll guide you through the process. If not, we’re still going to guide you on your career path,” Staff Sgt. Figueroa shares.
Just this past weekend, around 20 local enlistees took the oath were sworn in at the Army Birthday Bash in Yuma, joining the next generation of Army soldiers to protect defend our nation.